Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Works for me Wednesday ~ Chore Help

I've wrote about the program Handipoints before, but wanted to write again since the school year has started up again. It is basically an online chore chart which works great for kids, especially older kids that don't want the star stickers anymore.

Handipoints is a combination of Chore Charts + Virtual world for kids.

Parents create the account for your children. Then your kids can log in and set up tasks/chores. Your kids then earn points for completing tasks. After they complete a task, you can give them a letter grade on how they did.

Let me tell you, they have over 600 pre-programed tasks. Everything from chores around the house, to healthy living and even exercise and fitness. During the school years, there is an entire section for various home work and other school related items. They even have a drama section!

Kids then earn points that can be used in Handiland. This is the virtual world that they offer. It is pretty similar to Webkinz & Club Penguin. The character is a cat, you can change the way your cat looks and also change the clothes.

Kids can use their handipoints for buying things for their cat or you can set up a reward system. For example, my daughter can turn in 20 points for a trip to the park. You can also set up a system to earn actual money. This is a great way to do allowance.

The one thing that I really enjoy about this program is the help with chores. I always struggle with what types of chores my kids should be doing. With over 600 pre-set activities, it is very easy to make up a great chart that is not to overwhelming for my kids. I love that it has simple tasks like brush your teeth, brush your hair, shower/bath, wash hands, close the door, turn off the light. To more complicated tasks like pick up clothes, wash dishes, set the table, etc. Plus all the homework options, which can be very general to subject specific. They even can earn points for going to dance, sports, etc. I know my kids love doing activities, but some weeks they just get burnt out. The added incentive of getting points for their Handi Cat helps out :)

About Me

I am a stay at home mom of two wonderful daughters. I am an Ebay seller, which I enjoy very much! I am married to my husband for 15 years, and we currently live in Michigan. I'm an avid reader, and I have been scrapbooking for about 12 years now.
"Faith does not enhance reason, it replaces it." ~
Rack Jite